Australian politics will play host to three leadership contests next week after Matt Canavan announced he will challenge David Littleproud for the right to lead the Nationals.

The outspoken senator, who is a vocal supporter of coal power and a critic of efforts to reach net zero emissions reductions, wrote in The Australian newspaper today that he would stand for the leadership of the junior Coalition party.

“David Littleproud can be enormously proud of his role in defeating the Voice, putting nuclear power on the agenda and having divestiture powers adopted as Coalition policy for the first time,” Canavan said.

“But this debate is not about protecting his job or mine. This is about fighting for the jobs and livelihoods of the many people we represent.

“Our plan should be based on how we can save the country, not save the party. I am standing for my party’s leadership so that I can tell my kids I did everything I could to fight for a better life for them.

“The plan we took to the last election was rejected. We need a new plan. I have been arguing for a different approach ever since we signed up to net zero. So, I believe that I am in a stronger position to prosecute change.”

Canavan said he would challenge Littleproud on Monday.